Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed the provincial government’s dedication to fostering religious harmony and combating extremism during a meeting with Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Tahir Ashrafi and members of the National Peace Message Committee on Wednesday.
Murad Ali Shah commended the committee’s efforts in enhancing national cohesion, emphasizing Sindh’s rich heritage of Sufi traditions, tolerance, and interfaith harmony where religious minorities freely celebrate their festivals. He underscored the government’s duty to safeguard citizens’ rights and religious freedoms, urging religious scholars to intensify their role in eradicating extremism and hate. Additionally, the chief minister stressed the importance of countering hateful content on social media by promoting a positive national narrative and announced government backing for an upcoming provincial conference involving religious scholars, spiritual leaders, and interfaith representatives.
In a significant development, Tahir Ashrafi elaborated on the committee’s mission to advance peace, tolerance, and national unity. He highlighted the alignment between the government and religious scholars in addressing extremist threats. Ashrafi advocated for the full implementation of the Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative to eliminate extremism and sectarianism, calling for stringent measures against those spreading sectarian hatred.
Addressing the armed forces, Ashrafi emphasized that security personnel do not guard borders merely for salaries but serve with deep commitment and sacrifice. He revealed that soldiers often ask their mothers to pray for martyrdom, recognizing the sacrifices made by the police, Rangers, and military for the nation. He urged politicians to restrict political disputes to the political domain and refrain from targeting state institutions, affirming pride in the armed forces and a firm stance against any disrespect towards martyrs.
Emotional while paying tribute to fallen security personnel, Ashrafi stated that their sacrifices have brought honour to Pakistan and declared that the country’s security and stability are non-negotiable.
Also present was Council of Islamic Ideology Chairman Raghib Hussain Naeemi, who called for dialogue among all sects and religions. He noted that enduring peace and national unity would significantly contribute to Pakistan’s economic progress.
The meeting, which included provincial ministers, the chief secretary, and the inspector general of Sindh, concentrated on reinforcing national unity, promoting interfaith harmony, and intensifying efforts to combat hate speech and sectarianism.
